Well FORMed – A new annual art festival for Cornwall
Well FORMed – A new annual art festival for Cornwall
Falmouth
29 September to 1 October 2023
After a successful inaugural year in 2022, the directors of FORM have announced the dates for the second visual arts festival in Falmouth, Cornwall from 29 September – 1 October 2023. FORM was conceived to celebrate the contemporary arts and crafts heritage and vibrant creative culture of the area, and to provide a new platform for people at all stages in their creative journey.
The highlight of FORM is a free to visit three-day Art Fair at the landmark Princess Pavilion with over 90 exhibitors showcasing their work. In 2022 the event welcomed over 3,500 visitors who were completely immersed in the work of the Cornish painters, ceramicists, printmakers, jewellers, woodworkers and sculptors who continue to represent Cornwall’s long-standing artistic tradition. A festival atmosphere was assured as visitors also indulged in delicious eats from street food vendors and listened to music from local bands.
FORM also presents a mix of free and ticketed events, exhibitions, and workshops in venues across the town. At The Poly, there will be a panel discussion in association with Street Draw 24 which is taking place the same weekend as FORM. Profits from ticket sales for “Art, What is it Good For?” will go to St Petrocs, supporting people facing homelessness in Cornwall. There are also art and creativity focussed films, a Pre-Raphaelite themed “Drink & Draw” to tie in with the last weekend of the fabulous exhibition - The Legend of King Arthur: A Pre-Raphaelite Love Story - at Falmouth Art Gallery, and more to be announced.
A not-for-profit organisation, FORM is spearheaded by two local creatives - Vicki Glaister of Inspire Makers, which showcases the work of over 50 Cornish contemporary design-led artists and craftspeople, and Ann Morgan of Morgans, an art and design gallery that is a relatively new but well respected addition to Cornwall's contemporary art scene.
Already championing established and emerging Cornish talent through their own independent galleries in Falmouth, both are keen to inspire people at all stages in their creative journey. FORM introduces artists and makers to new audiences, supports the growth of Falmouth’s dynamic artistic community, and offers opportunities to learn more about the visual arts, as well as encouraging the public to purchase directly from these small creative enterprises and continue this legacy within their own homes.
Vicki Glaister of Inspire Makers and Ann Morgan of Morgans say:
“This county of Cornwall has long been a source of inspiration, refuge, and community. Both shaped by and simultaneously shaping the creatives who call it home. Artists and makers here are influenced by the rhythms of the landscape that surrounds us, inspired by both the raw dynamism and the gentle ebb and flow. We believe the art created in Cornwall is unparalleled and deserves to be celebrated by both familiar and new faces.”
Richard Wilcox, Executive Director of Falmouth Business Improvement District (BID) says:
“Falmouth’s Festival calendar gets bigger and better every year, and we are delighted to be able to support FORM Falmouth via Falmouth BID under our umbrella grouping of Falmouth Creates. With Falmouth University and countless creative businesses continually setting up across our vibrant community, FORM Falmouth is a brilliant example of grass roots ideation that has transformed with the support and nurturing of the Falmouth BID and the surrounding creative colleagues and community. Falmouth is a dynamic and creative destination, which punches well above its weight, attracting people from all around the world for its festivals and events which all drive locals and visitors alike into our excellent food and drink scene, bustling high street and community offering.”
FORM 2023 Art Fair Opening Hours
Friday 29th September 14:00 - 20.00
Saturday 30th September 10:00 - 17:00
Sunday 1st October 10:00 - 16:00
The full programme of events will be announced on FORM’s website
FORM is supported by Falmouth BID and is part of an exciting new group of creative and cultural festivals working together as “Falmouth Creates” set up during the Covid-19 pandemic to reflect the various elements of Falmouth’s vibrant cultural scene and community.
